Best Prospect In The Sport? UFC Signs Petr Yan’s Undefeated Training Partner

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ABU DHABI, UAE - OCTOBER 22: Azerbaijani fighter Asaf Chopurov (red) celebrates after winning against Angolan fighter Demarte Pena (blue) in the Bantamweight category during the "64th UAE Warriors International Mixed Martial Arts Championship" held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on October 22, 2025. (Photo by Waleed Zein/Anadolu via Getty Images) | Anadolu via Getty Images

UFC 333 just scored an incredible new addition.

Per a first report from Pelunaton, blue chip prospect Asaf Chopurov has officially signed to the UFC roster. Undefeated at 11-0 as a professional, Chopurov is a primary sparring partner of UFC Bantamweight kingpin Petr Yan. In addition, Chopurov is the UAE Warriors champion, built up an amateur record of 34-1 before going pro, and has finished 10 of his professional victories.

The 24-year-old from Azerbaijan will debut versus Alexander Vokanovski’s training partner, Colby Thicknesse, at UFC 333 on Oct. 24 from Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE (h/t the Heavy).

There’s a ton of hype behind Chopurov. His credentials and experience certainly speak volumes, but it’s Chopurov’s skills that really jump off the page. He’s a slick ground specialist with unique Judo throws, and yet Chopurov also has composed striking with genuine knockout power.

Here’s a sample of his work:

Thicknesse is a perfect debut opponent. The Australian holds a 2-1 record in the Octagon, coming up short versus Aleksandre Topuria in his debut before turning away both Josias Musasas and Vince Morales. Well-rounded and well-conditioned, the 27-year-old “Slickness” should help determine whether Chopurov is ready for the highest level of competition.